Lagos, Nigeria Thursday, May 22, 2025
In commemoration of African Liberation Week, and in alignment with the Africans Rising Global Movement, the Icons Mind Team led a powerful Resilience Campaign on Economic Justice in the Makoko and Agege communities of Lagos. This initiative formed part of the broader continental campaign themed “Borderless Africa,” which united over 900 organizations across Africa to address urgent issues of economic inequality, community development, and Pan African solidarity.
In Makoko, one of Lagos’ most underserved waterfront settlements, the campaign spotlighted critical challenges such as the growing number of out-of-school children, lack of decent employment, chronic hunger, deep rooted poverty, poor access to quality education and healthcare, and limited availability of potable water. These issues were discussed in direct relation to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
Goal 1: No Poverty
Goal 2: Zero Hunger
Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being
Goal 4: Quality Education
Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
During an interactive session with the Baale (traditional ruler) of Makoko, community leaders voiced their frustrations about longstanding neglect and urged for immediate, sustainable interventions.
Amb. Segun Nelson, who led the Icons Mind Team, emphasized the urgency of addressing economic injustice at the community level:
“Makoko is a reflection of African resilience, but resilience without equity is not progress. We are here to amplify the voices of the forgotten and demand inclusive planning that prioritizes the most vulnerable,” he said.
Joining the campaign were Comrade Christianah Jackson, a renowned youth advocate, and Mr. Chuks Modebe, a development strategist, both of whom stressed the importance of policy reforms in education, job creation, healthcare, and clean water access.
Following the Makoko engagement, the advocacy continued in the Agege area, where the conversation expanded to include Pan African reparations and the broader economic future of African communities. There, the team engaged with youth groups, local stakeholders, and community members who shared their hopes for a truly borderless Africa one grounded in justice, dignity, and prosperity for all.
The Icons Mind Team reiterated their dedication to taking this campaign to more communities across Nigeria, advocating for policy shifts that directly address the root causes of poverty and exclusion. They called on government and international stakeholders to urgently implement strategies that reflect the true spirit of the SDGs.
The team also extended heartfelt appreciation to Africans Rising, especially Comrade Prince Akpah, for the platform and support given to champion this noble cause:
“We do not take this opportunity for granted,” said the team. “Our advocacy will continue until tangible change reaches the doorsteps of every underserved African community.”
A documentary capturing the real life stories and powerful moments from both Makoko and Agege is currently in production and will serve as a lasting testament to the ongoing struggle and hope for a more equitable Africa.
